It's SO important!

10 great ways to discover true Happiness (in no particular order):

1. Set goals and complete them - Make a list! Cross things off as you complete them. It really feels good!

2. Dance, sing, listen to music - Hard to keep a frown on your face when listening to nice, happy music!

3.Make something - Anything! I'm thinking about creating something having to do with photo's!

4. Grow something- Plants, perhaps? Fun to watch them grow, and change!

5. Give freely - This feels good. Especially when it's from the heart!

6. Get physical - Take a walk. Have incredible sex! The more you do it, the better you'll feel.

7. Add color - Take off the bland black top! Put something colorful on!!

8. Take a friend to lunch (or out for coffee) - Yes!!!! Get social!

9. Learn to be alone - I learned this a long time ago. It's really important. I honestly believe in "alone time".

10. Stretch your mind - Quit resisting, and learn something new. Embrace it. :) It even helps give you something to talk about (not that I lack in that dept).

WHY THE LISTS, ERIN???????
Dunno. :)
It's just fun to me.
And, you never know. Next week could be something different!

Spring is in the Air!!! It really is! I can't wait! I'm really looking forward to it!

And....... 38 days until my Cruise on the "Dawn"! Woooohoooooo - Have I mentioned lately how much I love to cruise????? It's like a dream to me!!! A dream come true!!



Which reminds me....
One of the gifts I received on my Birthday was, "The Love Boat" on DVD. It's only the first 10 episodes, but I have been waiting about 2 years for this DVD to come out. HOW FUN!!! For the past two nights we've been watching it. WOW. It's so hysterical! Not just the 70's humor, but the clothing, the style of the ship, etc. It's just so much fun to watch. And, I have to say... the fit of the clothing was a wee bit clingy (lol). The men wore tight short shorts, and left very little room in the crotch. And, the women wore their bottoms tight, and pulled them way up in the front. :) So, yeah..it's very entertaining to watch. And the celebrities that are on it. I love them!!! It's so awesome! It was my absolute favorite show when I was a little girl. And,it's interesting.. each episode felt "new" to me last night. Only a few times I would recall something as familiar. It's amazing how our memory changes. Simply amazing to me......
But, in any event - it was fun! And now Brooke is hooked. I was 9 when I watched it. She's 11. It's fun.

What else? Well, Brandon is sick :(
My poor boy.

Brooke is back to school today. She was sick yesterday.
My home is like a hospital. Fred was sick last week.

Ut oh... I hope I'm not next......

:P

Monday!

BLAH!!!!!!

What happened to the weekend? It went by way to fast!

grrrrrrrrrrrrrr

ugh!

Darn!

*Big smile.

Happy Monday.

I turned 40 on Saturday. Wow. It sounds strange when I read that back to myself.
I turned 40.

Damn.

It was a nice weekend. Really Nice.
I'll blog about it. I just have to put my thinking cap on.. and then I'll post about my weekend. I have lots to share....

Ok... So I made my list of 40 things I've done. THAT was fun.

And, I shared it with some close friends.

Today, one of my co-workers suggested that I make a list of 40 words to describe myself... BUT, they have to begin with "F" (for Forty). She is going to turn 60. So, she will do the same, but with the letter "S". :) It's not as easy as it seems! But, here goes!

1-Funny
2-Friendly
3-Freaky
4-Fabulous
5-Fine
6-Free-spirited
7-Faithful
8-Flirt
9-Frugal
10-Forgetful
11-Forgiving
12-Fruity
13-Fair
14-Fancy
15-Fantastic
16-Flustered
17-Foolish
18-Frisky
19-Foxy
20-Fussy
21-Fearful
22-Fashionable
23-Feminine
24-Festive
25-Fierce
26-Finicky
27-Flakey
28-Flashy
29-Fantastic
30-Floozy
31-Fluffy
32-Forget-me-not
33-Frantic
34-Fresh
35-Frustrated
36-Functional
37-Forever Friend
38-Flowery
39-Fiesty

40-FORTY!!!!

Is it Friday?



It's MY Friday (well as far as work goes)

I have a long weekend, and a FREE Day off tomorrow! Thank you Rider U!

It's Wednesday!

Happy Hump Day!



:)

It's not just a "List"... It's

I have compiled a list of 40 things. Not in any particular order. It's just a list of things that I have done, seen, experienced, etc... prior to turning 40. Random things that came to mind. Sure, there's more than 40! But, these are the first 40 that came to mind. :) It's simply a collection of things that make "me" who "I" am, today.

Enjoy! You just might be a part of this list of mine!

Again - no particular order. :P

1-Colored my hair - blond, red, black, multi... and now, as it should be - Brunette.

2-Got a Tattoo

3-Vacationed out of the Country

4-Laughed until I cried - happy tears. And, sometimes sad

5-Hugged a complete stranger. Good and tight

6-Read an entire Book in one sitting

7-Helped a friend (or two) in need

8-Made a friend "online"

9-Lived in Poverty, and reversed it

10-Created and ran a successful business

11-Became a Mommy to 2 beautiful children

12-Took a chance on Love - married him. Beat all the odds!

13-Danced, Nude

14-Made love in a public place (discretely) and in many other wild and crazy places

15-Became an "A" student in College

16-Adopted a terminally Ill pet & nursed him back to health.

17-Made some major life changing decisions

18-Overcame my fear of elevators (almost totally)

19-Said "no" to drugs

20-Lived Alone

21-Went to a Movie alone

22-Rode across Bermuda on a scooter, in the pouring rain (and I mean POURING)

23-Traveled across Country by car

24-Went to Lincoln Center in NYC to the Metropolitan Opera House (Thanks Mom)

25-Experienced several Ballet's (again, Thanks Mom)

26-Enjoyed many "Rock" concerts. Even cried through one (Aaron Lewis/Staind)

27-Skinny Dipped

28-Made a Picnic on the Living room floor

29-Chose forgiveness over anger

30-Discovered my passion for photography

31-Stepped "outside the box" with my sexuality

32-Made friends and family laugh out loud, with my silly sense of humor

33-Rode on scary rides, to make my children happy

34-Drove all night

35-Walked away, and never turned back

36-Wrote several stories, and lots of poetry

37-Enjoyed the simple things in life - stopped and smelled the roses

38-Still try to view the world through rose colored glasses

39-Sing loud and strong, when I enjoy the music - despite the fact that my singing voice is not perfect

40-Become more accepting of myself, and my flaws - Because I am a beautiful woman.

Happy Tuesday!

Happy Tuesday to you and you and you , too!

It's almost Spring!!!! I didn't even wear a Jacket to work today. It's very exciting! And, this weekend we will change the clocks, and earn one more hour of sunlight. Wow!!! It's really almost Spring!!!!

How's everything? Well, it's pretty good. I had a peaceful evening last night, for the most part. Despite the pain (in my hip), the evening was nice. I don't want to complain or anything... but on Saturday I was doing "something" in a very awkward position, that lead to some major, intense hip pain! lol. It's funny, but it's not. I can hardly make it up and down stairs, AND - when I'm in bed, I can't turn on to my right side. It's horrible. I have no idea what to do, besides take Aspirin. I can't believe the pain I'm in! But, I don't want to complain!

So, this weekend.... Can't wait!!!!! I'm finally going to the Melting Pot. I am really looking forward to it. I've wanted to go there for a couple of years. However, it hasn't worked out. But, we now have reservations for Dinner there on Saturday. We're going to the Brand New one, in Atlantic City. We are so excited! And, we'll be gone for the weekend. Staying Bay side! Sunday, we'll pick the kids up, and go to my parents house for Dinner, and to Celebrate my Birthday. It should be nice. :)

But, I should focus on Today. SO far, so good. My brother called me from Switzerland just to see how I was doing. That was nice. After he called, my Dad called ... Just to see how I was doing. Nice! It's been a pretty nice day so far. Hubby has called me too!!! Guess why? Just to see how I was doing... and to tell me he loves me! I'm very very blessed! Mom called too! lol... but I was away from my desk. I'm currently playing phone tag with her. :)

Anyway, I hope this is a happy day for you!

Happy Tuesday!

Lists...

Someone suggested that I make a list of things I would like to accomplish, see, or do before I turn 40. Not possible. Time does not allow... and time, is the boss on this one. Without a doubt.

So, I have simply been dreading the thought of turning 40. It has really weighed heavy on me, for quite some time. I've smiled, and taken the whole thing lightly - on the outside. But, it does burn a little more than I'd like to admit. So, I'm admitting it now.... The thought is driving me crazy!

Well, to make it fun, I've decided that I am going to make a list. NOT about what I want to do, or accomplish, or see.... Rather, all of the wonderful things I've done already. It's absolutely what has made me the ALMOST 40 year old woman that I am today.

Silly, huh? I don't know. Maybe. But, isn't this something I am doing for me? Of course!!!! And so.... my fun little project will be created and posted before the day I turn 40. :) :) It's a good way for me to embrace, and enjoy the part of my life I have lived - fun fun fun!

Stay tuned!

Happy Monday

You'll never guess who spent the weekend with us! Let me tell ya...

Friday. Went to work, had a terribly stressful day. So, I decided it would be a nice idea if I went shopping and to Dinner with my girls. :) So, I did just that. Along with that, I managed to get my nails done. It was nice! And, the girls had a great time shopping. They are so sweet and adorable. It was just what I needed. Being with them always makes me feel good. Really. It was such a pleasant evening. :):)

So, who came to stay??? Normal! Yep! Totally caught me by surprise! I woke up on Saturday morning and there it was. Oh! This can't be!!! Normal??? Is that you???? Yes.... and guess who followed close behind? Peace!!! wow... it's been awhile since I've seen either of them! I was just as thrilled as I could be! Normal and Peace - in the same place, at the same time!!!! So, knowing they were settling in for at least the day, I figured I wanted to make the best of their visit. :)

Saturday. We spent the day enjoying each other. Me, hubby, Brooke and Lindsey ran out for a bit. We did a little shopping, and ended our shopping trip with a nice, hot dunkin donuts hot chocolate. YUM!

We had hot wings for dinner. By that time, Brandon had come home from his sleep over at Justin's. After dinner, we played a couple of board games, got in our comfy's, and just relaxed. Just us, and our friends, normal, and peaceful. Happiness heard that we were all together, so we ended up moving over, and inviting it in! So, there we were... And it was really good stuff.

Sunday. The laundry monster came on over. lol! So, there I stood... Tide in hand! Ready to attack! :) And, I did. It was great. Between me, my Tide, and my Downey... we kicked ass!!!! It was awesome. What a great accomplishment! lol (seriously).

And, last night before I fell asleep - I prayed that Normal, Peace, and Happiness would stay with us. At least for as long as they could. I appreciate them all so much. And yeah... sometimes I think I take them for granted. Because when they go away, I really miss them.......

Happy Monday. Indeed.

:)

When I arrived to work this morning I received some really sad new from my Mom.

My Uncle passed away over the weekend.

He had to be one of the dearest, sweetest, soft hearted human beings I have ever known. What a gentle soul........

What a shock.

He'd fallen, and hit his head. Never to recover. :(

Life is short, and very unpredictable.

Happy March!

Happy Friday.

Happy LEAP Year!

I have a lot going on. If I find the energy within, I will be blogging shortly.

IS IT FRIDAY YET????

Seriously....

This has been a L-O-N-G week!

I have to file all day today, and all day tomorrow.... and then - I'm off!

Can't wait. Searching for some sanity. Have you seen any?

:)

Hoping it jumps out from under the couch, and welcomes me with open arms!

Happy Thursday!

Happy Hump Day

I have chosen the most appropriate picture for today!

This is how I've been feeling for awhile.

Enough said.

Trying to turn things around, and move towards more positive thoughts, and posts.
It's a beautiful, sunny day.

I'm at work, sitting in my peaceful cubicle. :) No complaints here.

I'm feeling more rested than yesterday, and three times as rested as the day before that. :)

Life is a Journey. Sometimes it's a mystery.. you live and learn.. and choose how to ride the curves, and the bumps.

I'm holding on tight......

Happy Monday

It's been difficult trying to blog lately, and deal with everything going on. It really has. I haven't been lazy - just exhausted.

Hubby and I did manage to go to Baltimore over the weekend to celebrate Paul's Birthday. It was so nice and refreshing to get away, and see some old friends. It was sooooo great to see them. I only wish we had more time to visit. I have some fun pics to post, but forgot to upload them on the computer.



We did go to a great Comedy club, followed by an adorable pub, with an amazing "live" band. It was casual, fun, and the perfect blend of ages. I'd say the average patron was 35+. It was a late night out (Sat), and we slept at Paul's house, on an air mattress. It was just like old times! We stayed up unti 4 am, laughing and talking about silly stories from the past. And then, in the morning, we hung out for a little bit before we hit the road. It was really special. I adore Jimm, Monica, Paul, Clem, and Tanya. And, it was really nice meeting Lori. :)


That was the "good stuff"


Then, there's coming home. It was nice to get away... But, you cannot "hide" from the difficult times, and problems that weigh heavy on our hearts at home. I just keep trying to remind myself... We have our health, and nobody is hurt - physically.

Moving forward, with a positive outlook, and lots of hope and faith that tomorrow is going to be a brigher, better day. With each new day.... there's a chance that things will turn out better, and more peace will come to us. :)

Is it Friday Yet?????

Is it time to do the Happy Dance?????

Depression Sucks!

And so... My Brother's Father In Law attempted Suicide. Depression SUCKS! He's currently broken and hurt from taking a huge dive off his balcony in the Swiss Alps. First attempt, no success. So, he went for a second time. Damn.. Needless to say, he's in bad condition, but being treated in the hospital.

Depression sucks.

Thank god he survived.

My love suffers from depression. It's so hard for him. It's a terrible thing to live, and struggle with. My heart goes out to anyone who deals with it.

So, yeah... it's been a difficult year - and that's not even a dent it the list of "crap"

However, it could always be worse....

Hubby's sister, and her entire family lost everything on Sunday 2/17/2008. Prattville, Alabama - Tornado.

Such a sad thing. And I worry about my crap????

Thursday is here, and I'm lost in craziness!

So..... Yeah.. It's been nuts! Just plain crazy! Life has flipped over and over and over for us ever since 2008 arrived. This is my theory. I think all of the bad, negative stuff is happening now, so that the rest of 2008 is happy, cheerful, fun, sweet, sexy, and full of great times and opportunities! We're just weeding through the "crap" now, to get it out of the way.

I can't really get into what's been going on, However - I can say this.. Nobody is physcially hurt, or ill. Thank the good lord above. We are blessed there. We are healthy, and doing well on a physical level. :) Whew... I keep telling myself - things could always be worse.. And, they can!

So, I begin my day with this fun and cheerful song. It comes from the Macbook Air commercial. It's such a cute song, and it really makes me smile. It's bubbly, and happy. :) :) I'm determined to keep a positive attitude, and good, fun music helps!

Oh, Happy Thursday!!!

Life is short...Dance a little.

Happy Hump Day


more to blog in a few minutes!

:)

So far, it's been a HELL OF A YEAR! whew.

Hubby and I are still in search of "Normal". Does anyone know where it might be hiding? :P

Last night when I got home from work, I had 4 dozen roses waiting for me.. Candy, a personalized balloon, a beautiful card... it was so nice. :) my dream guy :) I miss him. I can't wait to see him again. One on One. :) It feels like forever.

Funny... someone you love deeply could be right there beside you, yet it feels like they're a million miles away. We both demand a weekend bonding session. :) It's coming! Can't wait.

We have totally gotten our asses kicked! Still smiling though. :) :) :) :)

And, Happy Monday!

While most people find themselves enjoying a long weekend, I'm back to work! :P
It's okay though. I don't mind a bit. I am lucky to have a job .... Especially one that gives me the whole week off (paid) during the Christmas Holiday! And, a job that is willing to pay tuition for both of my Children when it's time for them to go to College!! Here, or at more than 250 other Colleges and Universities! Not bad. I would be foolish to complain!!!!! So, a very happy Monday to you, and a Happy Presidents' Day!

My weekend. I'm still pondering on that subject.... I might have to get back to you on that one! I can say this... It was nice to visit with the kids. And, the time went so fast that I can hardly put a finger on exactly what we did. It's just been very stressful. I would have to say, one of the most stressful times of my life. One of them.. NOT the most.... But, it's up there. I pray for normal - still...

It's in the 60's today. I'm loving that! I don't even mind the rain a bit :)

Happy Day!

My best to you, always!

Domestic Goddess Day!!! ahhhh Saturday!!!

Click on the picture! :) lol

Laundry
Cleaning
Laundry
Cleaning
Laundry

Happy Friday!!!!

I'm turning everything over, taking a deep breath.... and hoping for the best, for the rest of the day.

I am now back to the mind set that I am here to enjoy all the beautiful things is life...

So, It's Friday!! I am sooo happy about that!!!! I look forward to a peaceful weekend. I could use one!
Brooke is off to the beach.
Brandon is going to get together with friends.
We're expecting company. Freddy, Mara, and the kids. So - we'll have plenty to do this weekend!!!!

I'm really looking forward to the weekend!

I hope you enjoy yours, too!!!!!

The picture? Ahhh, she's my sexy prisoner! I'm going to have her help me out with my domestic stuff this weekend. :) And, she will be rewarded, by me!!! woohoo! :)

See, I'll be ok... :)

Friday

Did you ever feel like you got your ass kicked so bad that you'd never feel normal again????

Did you ever just wish for "normal"? Nothing amazing, nothing different... Just "normal"?

Well. Let me tell ya.......

Right now, I'd be so happy with "normal".

Yesterday was the most ass kicking day I have had in YEARS. I mean that. It started out bad, and got worse and worse.....

By the time my head hit the pillow last night, I just wished that this morning when I woke up, all the mess would be gone.

It's not.

BUT, It's Friday.

And, I'm keeping my chin up, and praying that today is a better day.

Happy Friday.

YES, I saw Fireworks!

Did You? <3

We couldn't wait another minute....heck, we couldn't waste a precious moment...

*Big smile

Happy Valentine's Day! wooohoooo!!!!

^..^

MY VALENTINE <3